Jess Kovacs

When I finished my first draft of what I affectionately call CROSSCUT LOVERS I rewarded myself by commissioning character art from one of my favourite artists. It was the best reward I could have possibly given myself. Not only was it a reward- it was motivation. Seeing my characters come to life was incredibly motivating for me. Sharing a piece of myself (aka my characters) with someone and seeing how they visualized these people who had become so important to me, was an out of this world experience. It was my first taste of someone else becoming invested in my characters and it was invigorating. It filled me with a new kind of creative energy, something I have been incredibly grateful for throughout the editorial process. The art has become a tangible reminder of that feeling, pushing me forward.

As I move through my final edit and into the querying process, I need that reminder more and more. Querying is terrifying but I am motivated by the idea that someday I could be sharing a piece of myself with the world. That people could become just as invested in Linden and Wesley’s lives as I am. And that helps me move forward, despite the fear. 

All this to say, look at this amazing character art Nicolle Lalonde has created for me! 

Find her @nicollelalonde on Instagram.